Sadie Hunter highlighted accessibility as a priority during her 2018 municipal election campaign, prior to being elected for the first time

A Kamloops city councillor is following through on a campaign promise to make the city more accessible.

Sadie Hunter presented a notice of motion on Tuesday, which will be debated at next week’s council meeting, seeking options and/or business cases for accessibility projects to be included in the 2020 five-year financial plan.

“I’m just looking to make sure there is an intentional allocation of funding,” Hunter told reporters in council chambers.

Though the city recently increased its active transportation budget, Hunter noted it did not result in an increase in accessibility and inclusivity projects. She said at the city’s current pace, it could take 25 to 30 years to see bus pads and curb letdowns throughout the city.

“What I’m asking staff for is to come back with some recommendations and business cases for some specific projects, with funding allocation so it is done,” Hunter said.

Asked where the money will come from, she said that is part of what she will ask staff to investigate.

Hunter highlighted accessibility as a priority during her 2018 municipal election campaign, prior to being elected as a first-term councillor.

“If you have never experienced barriers to mobility or accessing a building, you might not think of it,” she said.

“I don’t think it’s a neglect or anything like that. I think there needs to be a voice there, saying ‘What about these things?’ Let’s include these things intentionally, as we move forward.”